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New RNA sequencing method reveals hidden layer of immune system control

Researchers have discovered a previously underappreciated mechanism that helps immune cells respond rapidly to infections by altering RNA splicing. This study provides new insights into immune-mediated diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and may lead to more targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Protein complex protects central RNA quality control from disruption

A research team discovered that a protein complex consisting of SMG1, SMG8, and SMG9 ensures the efficient execution of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD). The study found that this complex is essential for maintaining the stability of NMD under various conditions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 30, 2026

Chronic kidney disease poisons patients’ hearts, scientists discover

Researchers identify circulating extracellular vesicles produced in diseased kidneys as the culprit behind toxicity in the heart. The discovery could lead to the development of a blood test to identify patients at high risk for serious heart problems and novel treatments to prevent and treat heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalCirculation·DateJan 20, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

DNA shape and rigidity regulate key players of gene expression

Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center discovered that inflexible DNA within nucleosomes regulates the positioning of INO80, a chromatin remodeling complex. This unique mechanism allows INO80 to position itself on the surface of nucleosomes at the right location.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateNov 24, 2025

Zerlasiran—A small-interfering RNA targeting lipoprotein(a)

Zerlasiran, a small-interfering RNA targeting hepatic synthesis of apolipoprotein(a), significantly reduced time-averaged lipoprotein(a) concentrations by over 80% during 36 weeks of treatment. This finding has potential implications for the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 18, 2024

Through the looking glass: A cross-chiral reaction challenges our definition of life

Researchers demonstrate the first cross-chiral exponential amplification of an RNA enzyme, potentially leading to the development of cross-chiral therapeutics and biotechnologies. The discovery suggests that a bioengineer can create a new form of biochemical evolution by using both left- and right-handed molecules.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2024

A better way to make RNA drugs

A team of scientists at Harvard University developed a new RNA synthesis process that produces RNA with efficiencies comparable to current industry standards. The novel method can incorporate all common molecular modifications found in RNA drugs, expanding the RNA therapeutic design space.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Researchers at IOCB Prague develop a new method for enzymatic synthesis of potential RNA therapeutics

Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a novel method for preparing ribonucleic acid (RNA) containing modified bases using engineered DNA polymerases. This opens the door to applications in chemical biology and therapeutic applications, including mRNA drugs.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

New insights on the transcriptional regulation of seed germination

Researchers at CRAG have made groundbreaking discoveries on seed germination, identifying key regulatory features and non-coding RNAs that drive the process. The study reveals that transcription restarts much earlier than previously thought, opening up new avenues for investigation into the role of the non-coding genome.

SourceCenter for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 20, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer identified

A team of Chinese and UK researchers has identified superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer. By using nanoparticles to deliver siRNA that reduces SOD1 levels, the study showed reduced growth and decreased resistance to cisplatin in female mice.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalCancer Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023

Breakthrough in combating multiple myeloma: For the 1st time in the world researchers destroyed most cancer cells in the bone marrow using a targeted system containing RNA therapy

A breakthrough treatment targeting bone marrow cancer cells destroyed 90% of multiple myeloma cells in laboratory tests and 60% in human tissue samples. Researchers developed lipid-based nanoparticles containing RNA molecules that silence the CKAP5 gene, inhibiting cancer cell division.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 27, 2023

James Chappell wins NSF CAREER Award

James Chappell, a Rice University bioscientist, has won a National Science Foundation CAREER Award to create RNA programming methods for microbial communities in natural habitats. His research aims to improve human health and the environment by genetically manipulating microbial communities.

SourceRice University·DateMar 27, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Rice team eyes cells for sophisticated data storage

Researchers at Rice University have developed cells that can store and process information similar to computer RAM. The cells will be programmed to synthesize redox-active molecules that carry information to and from the outside world, allowing for quick read and write capabilities.

SourceRice University·DateAug 18, 2022

Recently discovered protein turbocharges gene expression

A new protein called NDF has been discovered to enhance gene activation and may be involved in diseases like cancer. Found in all human tissues, NDF works by stimulating RNA polymerase elongation, a key step in gene expression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

RNA molecules control repair of human DNA in cancer cells

A new study from Karolinska Institutet shows how certain RNA molecules control the repair of damaged DNA in cancer cells. The researchers discovered two molecule types that interact to regulate an enzyme involved in DNA-repair mechanisms, leading to faulty DNA repair in cancer cells.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Closer to understanding genetic diseases

Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University have identified the molecular mechanism behind an important form of RNA modification, which can lead to genetic disorders. The discovery could pave the way for targeted RNA modifications and gene therapies.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateFeb 14, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Silencing tool quashes gene activity across generations

Scientists have developed a gene-silencing tool that can quash gene activity across generations using small noncoding RNA molecules. This technique, called piRNAi, has expanded the molecular toolkit for gene manipulations and allows for more detailed investigations in nematode worms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Methods·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Scientists with the help of computer modeling discover a substance that blocks coronavirus

Researchers at South Ural State University used computer modeling to identify a substance that can block the spread of coronavirus. The study found that ligands must match RNA polymerase as closely as possible to be effective, and scientists have developed an equation to test other ligands' effectiveness on receptors.

SourceSouth Ural State University·JournalMolecules·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 16, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

A deep dive into cells' RNA reality

A new RNA detection method, BOLORAMIS, overcomes limitations of previous technologies to analyze RNA molecules in their native cellular environment. The study demonstrates high specificity and sensitivity, enabling the analysis of multiple RNAs simultaneously.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 17, 2021

Origins of life: Chemical evolution in a tiny Gulf Stream

Researchers at LMU München report a hydrothermal mechanism that could have promoted the prebiotic evolution of self-replicating molecules. In an experiment, warm water circulation through pores stimulates RNA strand replication, overcoming the initial problem of double-stranded RNA formation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 7, 2020

Prebiotic RNA synthesis

A team of scientists discovered ribozymes that utilize the prebiotically plausible 2-aminoimidazole group to catalyze RNA synthesis. This finding implies a complex interplay between nonenzymatic and enzymatic RNA synthesis during Earth's origin, challenging existing theories.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2020

Ribozyme that synthesizes its own ancestor

Researchers evolved an RNA polymerase ribozyme that can synthesize its own ancestor, a class I ligase enzyme, in three separate RNA strands. However, the synthesized ligases were often free from function-disabling mutations and exhibited poor fidelity of synthesis.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2020

Life's Frankenstein beginnings

A new study proposes that the first building blocks of life on Earth were not uniform but rather patchwork molecules containing bits of RNA and DNA. The 'RNA World' hypothesis has been revised to suggest a Frankenstein-like beginning, with RNA emerging from a mixture of nucleotides.

SourceHarvard University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 22, 2020
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

A new, unified pathway for prebiotic RNA synthesis

Researchers have identified a unified chemical pathway that generates both purine and pyrimidine nucleosides, key building blocks of RNA. The 'wet-dry' cycling approach provides a plausible solution to the formation of Watson-Crick bases, but synthesis specifics of carbohydrates remain unclear.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 3, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

HKUST scientists discover how RNA PoII maintains accurate transcription with super computer

A research team led by Prof. HUANG Xuhui discovered the mechanism of RNA polymerase II correcting errors in RNA synthesis, which relies on the RNA itself rather than amino acid residues. This finding offers insights into how transcription may go wrong in ageing and diseased cells, potentially leading to various human diseases.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 2, 2019

Synthetic molecule invades double-stranded DNA

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a synthetic molecule that can recognize and bind to double-stranded DNA or RNA under normal physiological conditions. The Janus gamma PNAs have an extraordinarily high binding energy and can be designed to target genomic DNA for gene editing and transcriptional regulation.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateNov 12, 2018

RNA microchips

Researchers at the University of Vienna and McGill University have created a new approach to synthesizing RNA, making it up to a million times more efficient than previous methods. The breakthrough uses photolithographic fabrication technology and a new protecting group to produce RNA chips with high yields.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 6, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Scientists ID protein exploited by virus ravaging West Africa

A research team has identified DDX3, a protein involved in RNA metabolism, as a key factor promoting arenavirus multiplication. The study may pave the way to new therapeutic treatments for arenaviruses and hemorrhagic fever, which currently have no effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 12, 2018

The mystery of masculinization in Daphnia magna unraveled

Scientists have discovered a new mechanism of sex determination in the crustacean Daphnia magna, where long chain noncoding RNAs activate male-determining genes. This finding contributes to our understanding of lncRNA function and diversity in sex-determination mechanisms.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 28, 2018

Chemical evolution: Progenitors of the living world

Scientists have shown that alternation of wet and dry conditions can drive the prebiotic synthesis of RNA nucleosides. The new experiments demonstrate a plausible route for the formation of these building blocks, which constitute the informational components of RNA.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2018

How stress controls hemoglobin levels in blood

Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover a new mechanism regulating hemoglobin gene expression through stress response. Stress is necessary to produce hemoglobin, and its signal activates enzymes to facilitate splicing.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCell Research·DateApr 4, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Gene regulation: Shaping up to make the cut

Researchers have discovered that distinct conformations of a protein essential for spliceosome assembly on mRNA precursors significantly influence splicing efficiency. The findings suggest that different structural configurations adopted by the large subunit of U2AF regulate splicing operations, affecting protein synthesis rates and fi...

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2016

Watching RNA fold

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a technology platform that provides high-resolution representation of RNA folding during synthesis. This breakthrough allows for the study of RNA folding in unprecedented detail, potentially leading to discoveries in basic biology, gene expression, and disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateOct 31, 2016

A new method simplifies blood biomarker discovery and analysis

A new gene expression analysis method, GlobinLockTM, overcomes technical bias in blood sample analysis caused by erythrocytes, allowing for more effective biomarker identification. The patented assay minimizes reagent and sample material needs, making it a robust tool for biotechnology companies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Scientists take big step toward recreating primordial 'RNA world' of 4 billion years ago

Researchers at TSRI successfully created a ribozyme capable of synthesizing complex RNA molecules with mixed sequences, showing promise for replicating the ancient RNA world. The new ribozyme can perform both RNA synthesis and replication, a crucial step towards creating a self-sustaining RNA-based life form.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016

Researchers find how proteins control gene expression by binding both DNA and RNA

The study reveals that p53's RNA-binding capacity plays a crucial role in controlling mRNA translation, with some mutant forms of the protein even promoting tumour growth. By binding to MDMX mRNA, p53 can suppress its own negative regulator, highlighting a previously unknown mechanism of action for this essential tumour suppressor.

SourceUmea University·JournalOncogene·DateAug 4, 2016

Evolution: Building blocks of life

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have identified a plausible reaction mechanism for the production of key components of RNA under conditions similar to those on the young Earth. The discovery validates a pathway that could explain how chemical evolution proceeded before the formation of the first cells.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience·DateMay 17, 2016

UT Southwestern scientists find potential treatment for Friedreich's ataxia

Researchers have identified a way to allow normal frataxin production to resume in individuals with Friedreich's ataxia, a neurological disease for which there is currently no cure. The synthetic DNA or RNA prevents the mutant sequence from bending back and blocking the frataxin gene.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 16, 2016

RNA: The unknotted strand of life

Researchers found no knots in RNA structures among 6,000 known chains. Instead, naturally occurring RNAs tend to form simple geometric configurations.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Ebola, Marburg viruses edit genetic material during infection

Researchers discovered that Ebola and Marburg viruses edit their genetic material by adding extra nucleotides to their RNA. This process, known as RNA editing, was previously unknown in these viruses and could lead to a better understanding of their biology and the development of new treatments.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateNov 4, 2014

Blood product sterilization taken too far?

International study reveals blood product sterilization processes can prevent platelets from carrying out their functions correctly, potentially leading to hemorrhages. The processes alter the genetic material of pathogen-reducing treatments, depleting platelets of RNA and impairing their ability to synthesize essential proteins.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalPlatelets·DateJun 12, 2014

Virus rounds up enzymes, disarms plant

Researchers discovered how a plant-virus protein suppresses a key plant defense mechanism that remembers viral genetic information. The enzyme cluster formation caused by TGBp1 disrupts the recording of viral genetic information, reducing plant resistance to infection.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 30, 2014
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

MIPT experts reveal the secret of radiation vulnerability

Researchers at MIPT found that combined mutations of two genes in Drosophila flies result in synergistic effects on phenotypic expression, leading to defects in leg formation, memory impairment, and reduced resistance to superoxide radicals. The study provides insights into the mechanisms of morphogenesis and detoxification.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2014

The sense of 'antisense' RNA

A study published in Nature has shown that non-coding antisense RNA can stimulate protein production by acting as a 'lock' for coding RNA, enabling the action of a stimulatory sequence to promote protein synthesis.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2012

Ancient enzymes function like nanopistons to unwind RNA

Molecular biologists at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered that DEAD-box proteins, ancient enzymes found in all forms of life, function as recycling 'nanopistons' to unwind RNA. This mechanism has implications for treating cancer and viruses in humans.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2012
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

MU researchers find synthetic RNA lessens severity of fatal disease

Researchers at University of Missouri have found that targeting synthetic RNA to a specific gene can significantly lower the severity of Spinal Muscular Atrophy in mice. The study shows promising results with improved motor skills and increased weight in affected animals.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateNov 21, 2011

Biological circuits for synthetic biology

Researchers aim to create biological circuits using RNA molecules for the engineering of programmable genetic networks. They have successfully eliminated protein requirements and developed a system that can sense RNA input and synthesize output signals, performing logic operations and regulating multiple genes. This breakthrough has si...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 2011
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Counter defense strategy of virus

Researchers found that Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) synthesizes a protein, called 2b, to bind and inhibit AGO1, attenuating RNA silencing. Understanding the function of 2b will enable designing novel strategies for crop plants to survive various viruses.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 30, 2006